Michael Bert Theis, a local radio and TV personality who was also a master of the art of master of ceremonies, died Saturday (Sept. 1) of complications from injuries suffered during a recent fall in his New Orleans home. He was 55.

A Minnesota native who also lived in Chicago and Dallas, Theis moved to New Orleans 17 years ago, according to his sister, Shellie Walker of Dallas.

“He kind of blossomed here,” Walker said Sunday. “This is home to him.”

Theis worked on-air for several New Orleans radio outlets, hosted the Wednesday at the Square concert series and for the past year had reported a regular feature on WGNO-TV’s “News with a Twist.”

The segment, “Best Seat in the House,” focused on Theis’ interests in nightlife and the entertainment world. He had a vast array of social connections, friends said, especially among those who raise money for local charities.

“Mike easily had the busiest calendar in New Orleans, often holding court with a glass of Chardonnay at the Ritz-Carlton,” said LeBron “LBJ” Joseph, cohost of “News with a Twist,” who also worked with Theis on radio.

“He was heavily involved in just about any kind of civic organization or charitable benefit you can imagine,” added Realtor Robert Ripley, a longtime friend. “There’s hardly a group he hasn’t helped out in some way, whether by being a master of ceremonies, serving on a committee or planning an event. It was second nature to him. It was what he was here for, I think.”

Theis’ social style could sometimes be devilish, friends said, but always affectionately so.

“He could talk to anybody about anything, but it would usually be inappropriate,” Ripley said.

Born July 13, 1957, according to Walker, Theis was more youthful than his years would predict. Indeed, many of his New Orleans friends believed he was a decade younger than he was.

Theis often ended his “Best Seat” segments with a toast of his trademark glass of Chardonnay.

“I’m sure there’s probably a shortage in the city now,” Ripley said of the toasts underway to Theis’ memory. “They’re talking about a shortage of electricity. White wine is getting scarce rather quickly as well.”

Survivors include Walker and brothers Jack Theis and Steve Theis of Minneapolis, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.